Luther Barnes - I'm Still Holding On Lyrics

"I'm Still Holding On" (1984)- Luther Barnes, Red Budd Choir

I'm Still Holding On Song Meaning, Biblical Reference and Inspiration

Luther Barnes' "I'm Still Holding On," featuring the Red Budd Choir, is a powerful testament of faith and perseverance that continues to resonate with listeners. Though released in 1984, the song's video made available in 2008 brought its timeless message to a wider audience. The lyrics immediately establish a narrative of overcoming external doubt and negative predictions. The opening lines directly address those who declared the singer would "never make it," "wouldn't be here today," or "never amount to anything." This sets up a triumphant counter-narrative where the singer proudly asserts being "on my way" and progressing "more and more each day," directly refuting the naysayers through lived experience.

The song further deepens this theme by contrasting the singer's steadfastness with the paths of others who "started out" with them but have since "gone astray." This highlights the difficulty of the journey and underscores the commitment required to remain on the chosen path. The simple yet profound declaration, "But I'm still holding on. I'm still holding on. I'm still holding to his hand," emerges as the central affirmation of resilience grounded in divine connection. This isn't just about personal strength, but a reliance on a higher power, explicitly stated as holding onto "his hand."

The second verse delves into the personal commitment made early in life – giving God a hand and asking Him to "lead the way." This establishes the foundation of the journey as one directed by faith. The path has been undeniably difficult, described as "rough" with "goings been mighty tough," yet the resolve remains unwavering: "Still I ain't going nowhere, I'm right here to stay." The lyrics openly acknowledge the emotional toll, mentioning being "talked about and oh I've been criticized," and having to "wipe many tears from my eyes." Despite these painful experiences, the declaration of "I'm still holding on" is repeated, emphasizing that these challenges did not break the commitment but perhaps even strengthened it.

The chorus encapsulates the core message and the ultimate hope that fuels the perseverance. "And I'm still, holding on" is the primary affirmation, immediately followed by the explanation: "Yes I'm still in God's holy plan." This links the act of holding on directly to divine purpose and direction, providing meaning to the struggles. The future is also addressed with assurance: "And I'm bound for the promise land," identifying the ultimate destination and reward for faithfulness. The unwavering commitment is sealed with the powerful promise, "I will never, never let go of His hand," repeated for emphasis, signifying a total and permanent surrender and reliance on God's guidance and strength through "all trials and tribulations."

The song's power lies in its honest portrayal of life's difficulties combined with an unshakeable declaration of faith. It speaks to the universal experience of facing doubt, opposition, and hardship, offering an inspiring message of hope rooted in divine support. The lyrics remind listeners that perseverance is possible when relying on a higher power and that remaining committed leads towards a promised destination. Themes of holding fast to faith despite trials, staying in God's plan, and pressing toward a heavenly reward echo scriptural concepts found in passages such as Hebrews 10:23 ("Let us hold unswervingly to the hope we profess, for he who promised is faithful"), James 1:12 ("Blessed is the one who perseveres under trial because, having stood the test, that person will receive the crown of life that the Lord has promised to those who love him"), and Philippians 3:14 ("I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus"). The song serves as both a personal testimony and a communal anthem of enduring faith.